Using the Selection tool or the Type tool, select the type on the path you want to adjust.
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Apply effects to type on path
Last updated on
Jun 2, 2026
Learn how to reduce gaps on sharp curves, apply path text effects, and anchor objects with type on path in Adobe InDesign.
Tighten character spacing around sharp turns on paths
On curved or sharply angled paths, characters spread out and create visual gaps. The Spacing option reduces this extra space only on those segments, leaving straight sections unchanged. Unlike kerning or tracking, it targets distortion from curves and angles. Use kerning or tracking for overall spacing.
Select Type > Type on a Path > Options.
In the Spacing field, enter the value as required. The Spacing value compensates for how characters fan out around a curve or a sharp angle. It has no effect on characters positioned on straight segments.
To change the spacing of characters anywhere along the path, select them and then apply kerning or tracking.
Select OK.
Apply effects
Apply effects to type on a path to create distinctive designs. InDesign offers five alignment effects and spacing controls to improve readability on curves and angles. These adjust how characters relate to the path by rotating, distorting, or keeping them vertical. Apply them after creating the path text.
Use the Selection tool or the Type tool to select the type on a path.
Select Type > Type on a Path > Options.
Select one of the following in the Effect menu:
- Rainbow: Keeps the center of each character’s baseline parallel to the path’s tangent.
- Skew: Keeps characters’ vertical edges vertical while horizontal edges follow the path.
- 3D Ribbon: Keeps characters’ horizontal edges horizontal while vertical edges remain perpendicular to the path.
- Stair Step: Places the left edge of each character’s baseline on the path without rotating the characters.
- Gravity: Keeps the center of each character’s baseline on the path and aligns vertical edges toward the path’s center.
Select OK.
Add anchored objects
Anchor images, text frames, or graphics to type on a path so they move with the text and maintain their position. This works only with inline or above-line objects. Custom-positioned objects are not supported. Anchored objects follow the text as it reflows and inherit the path’s rotation and skew.
Use the Type tool or the Type on a Path tool to place an insertion point for the anchored object.
Add the anchored object as an inline or above line object or frame on the path. The Alignment option is relative to the anchored object marker for above-line anchored objects, and the Space Before option isn't available.
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